Changes to VTS Sectors in de CNB Area

The expansion and reorganization of the VTS sectors is the result of an evaluation of traffic flows and communication processes in the CNB area. This evaluation showed a disproportionate load on the radio frequency, leading to an uneven distribution of workload across the various sectors. The high radio traffic load is particularly present in the current VTS Sector Amsterdam (VHF Channel 4). 

The North Sea Canal and the Afgesloten IJ are among the busiest waterways in the Netherlands. To ensure and further improve safety and traffic management in this complex area, an expansion and reorganization of the VTS sectors is necessary. The change will enable our traffic operators to monitor and guide vessel traffic even more accurately, with the goal of achieving a more efficient and safer flow of maritime traffic throughout the CNB area.   

The changes to the VTS sectors will affect communication channels and procedures for shipping in the CNB area. The current VTS Sector Amsterdam will be split into two new sectors: Westhaven (VHF 4) and Sector Stad (VHF 5). Detailed information about the exact changes in sector layout, the corresponding VHF channels, and sector names can be found in this CNB decision. 

In addition, an overview of the revised sector layout and VTS communication arrangements will be available on our website. We ask all waterway users to prepare well for these changes and carefully review the updated sector layout. The new layout is expected to take effect on 30 September 2025.